Albert Sambi Lokonga was back at Anderlecht on Sunday where he ‘kicked-off’ the Belgian Classico against Standard Liege as he was presented to the home fans.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: Albert Sambi Lokonga of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on February 25, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 25: Albert Sambi Lokonga of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on February 25, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

After starting his second Crystal palace game against Liverpool in their 0-0 draw on Saturday evening, Albert Sambi Lokonga headed back to the club Arsenal bought him from in 2021.

The former Anderlecht captain was presented on the pitch before the game, which was the 200th time the two sides had met.

In honour of all those ‘twos’ the game itself finished 2-2, with an Anderlecht own goal in the 68th minute denying them all three points.

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Speaking recently, Crystal Palace manager, Patrick Vieira, has been full of praise for the midfielder, commending his technical abilities and comfort playing between the lines.

Vieira believes Lokonga can provide an extra attacking option to his side for the remainder of the season, improving the team as a result.

However, Vieira took Lokonga off in the 63rd minute of their game against Brentford (1-1) due to concerns about the player’s physical fitness.

Lokonga got his second start against Liverpool at the weekend and finished the game with a rating of 7.4, making 12 recoveries. He played the full 90.